Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Loss to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after an exchange with a TV crew member subsequent to the Citizens' 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.
When the match concluded, a visibly upset Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the operator. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, errors happen."
"What is for sure, I stand by my team and club, without a doubt. Why I support my squad is clear – because from my experience to clinch the title we need near-perfect totals, 98 points, or we fall short."
Team Standing and Guardiola's Assessment
City are third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points following their fourth loss this campaign. "Four defeats in twelve matches means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies in December when we won the quadruple? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "I've known him a long time and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager addressed his squad right after the final whistle. "No - as long as you talk with respect as I do, it's fine," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, constantly. My God, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning when Harvey Barnes scored Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen this week. "It’s quite good, it means that every season we have been there," he said.
City have 10 points from four matches of the league phase, and Leverkusen hold five.
